Amended scheme aims to improve Perth's housing supply

The Western Australian Parliament has passed the Planning and Development Amendment (Metropolitan Region Scheme) Bill 2024, in a move that seeks to expedite housing delivery across metropolitan Perth by removing redundant steps within the planning approval process.

Under the enacted bill, the text within the Metropolitan Region Scheme (MRS) has been updated to better align with the more contemporary Peel and Greater Bunbury region schemes, both of which guide land use and provide the legal basis for planning in their regions.

It is the first time the MRS text has been updated in 60 years.

According to a state government communique, the recently passed bill is anticipated to reduce duplicate steps within the current planning approval process by 80 percent.

The updated MRS also clarifies the Western Australian Planning Commission's authority to prepare and approve district structure plans and region planning scheme policies, as well as identify areas for regional infrastructure.

"We're modernising the Metropolitan Region Scheme to streamline and simplify approval processes, removing unnecessary red tape and burdensome administrative process from the planning system.

"The changes significantly reduce the paperwork and approvals required for more than 80 per cent of development applications, reducing the burden on homeowners, businesses and local governments."

The modernised MRS will take effect from 31 March 2025, following a transition period. More information is available on the state government website.